Tech & Smart Detective Work Track Suspect in Olorato Mongale Case

A coordinated operation between police and private security firm Vision Tactical led to the tracking and fatal shooting of Philangenkosi Makhanya, one of the suspects in the kidnapping and murder of Olorato Mongale, according to the Sunday Times report. The four-day manhunt ended in a bloody shootout on the KZN coast.

The Kidnapping and Initial Investigation

Olorato Mongale was kidnapped in Athol, Johannesburg, at 2:45 PM on Sunday and found dead just hours later in Lombardy East.

By Monday night, police contacted Vision Tactical, a security firm working closely with the SAPS anti-kidnapping unit, to assist in tracing the suspects.

Tracking the Suspects’ Movements

Vision Tactical’s director, Yaseen Theba, revealed that the suspects used a light-grey Volkswagen with cloned plates, indicating premeditation.

Security cameras captured the vehicle entering Alexandra township before moving to a lodge in Kew.

• The suspects later drove to Athol, where Olorato was taken.

• After dumping her body, they headed towards Durban, switching back to real license plates.

• Police used license plate recognition cameras and phone tower data to track their route.

The Breakthrough

Once police identified the real license plates, they traced the car to a lodge where Makhanya had signed in, revealing his identity. Investigators also discovered that the same vehicle had been impounded last month in connection with another kidnapping case involving Makhanya and his accomplice, Bongani Mthimkhulu – who remains at large.

The Final Showdown

On Wednesday, the tracing team flew to Durban, tracking the car to a panel beater workshop, where bloodstains were found under the back seat. Further investigations led them to a nearby lodge, where cloned plates were recovered.

• Makhanya was later spotted in a silver Polo, leading police to an apartment.

• Inside, authorities found 28 ID cards and 20 phones in a safe.

• After a tense standoff, Makhanya was killed in a shootout with police on Thursday evening.

This case highlights the power of technology and collaboration between law enforcement and private security in solving high-profile crimes. While one suspect remains at large, the operation demonstrates how smart detective work can bring criminals to justice.

Authorities continue to search for Bongani Mthimkhulu, urging anyone with information to come forward.